Rating: 4.5/5 (4 votes)

Open Days: Generally Monday – Saturday (closed on Sundays) (please call to confirm before you go)

Opening Hours: Generally 16:00 – 23:30 (hours may change depending on the day or special events; please call to confirm)

 

Hemlock Art Restaurant is one of those Phra Athit Road spots where “a meal comes with a story.” Many people remember it for its artsy atmosphere and for taking the idea of bringing art into a restaurant seriously rather than treating artwork as just decoration. The starting point came from the intention of Khun Piti Kulsirirat, who wanted to open a restaurant at a time when very few places truly showcased art as part of their identity. Most restaurants would only use art pieces as furniture or decorative elements. With the owner’s personal interest in art combining with the desire to create a restaurant with a clear character, Hemlock Art became an “art restaurant” where people can genuinely come for dinner and experience rotating artworks at the same time.

 

The charm of Hemlock Art is that it makes art feel approachable. You do not need to dress up or prepare any background knowledge. You simply walk in, choose a table, order food, and let your eyes wander across the works on the walls or display corners while waiting for your dishes or chatting with friends. It feels like “viewing art alongside real life,” which fits naturally with the slower rhythm of the Phra Athit neighborhood. The sidewalks, shady trees, riverside air, and the lively but not overly loud vibe of the old town all help set that mood.

 

In terms of exhibitions, Hemlock Art is open to many types of artworks rather than limiting itself to one category. The key is that the works are curated to suit a restaurant environment and the overall experience of diners. In general, the space has rotated displays at an average of around 12 times per year, so returning visitors often feel that it is “the same place, but a different chapter.” Some works bring a calmer tone to the room, while others add energy and playfulness, subtly changing the mood of a dinner without needing to announce anything loudly.

 

Another reason Hemlock Art has remained a long-standing talking point is the food. It is not only a place that looks good, but one that many diners consider delicious, with a menu varied enough for a proper meal, especially in the evening. If you come with friends or family, ordering several dishes to share tends to be more enjoyable, because each dish has its own character and the meal becomes a shared experience rather than a quick one-plate stop.

 

What makes a visit here especially enjoyable is how easily it can become a short “Phra Athit Road mini trip.” You can start with a stroll at Santichaiprakarn Park, stop by Phra Sumen Fort, watch the old-town rhythm of the street, or walk to Phra Athit Pier for a riverside breeze, then end the day with dinner at Hemlock Art. After the meal, it is also easy to continue toward Banglamphu or Khao San Road without needing to move to another area.

 

Getting There For the smoothest trip, take the Chao Phraya Express Boat and get off at “Phra Athit Pier,” then walk a short distance. Another option is to use BTS or MRT and then take a taxi or public transport into the Phra Nakhon – Banglamphu area (traffic can be heavy in the evening, so it is wise to allow extra time). If you drive, it is recommended to park in a building or paid parking area within walking distance, since roadside parking is limited and you may spend time circling for a spot during busy hours.

 

 

A: It is a restaurant that intentionally integrates an art-display space. You can dine normally and enjoy the artworks exhibited inside the restaurant at the same time.

 

A: The original concept is to rotate exhibitions at an average of around 12 times per year, keeping the atmosphere fresh over time. For the latest exhibition details, it is best to ask the restaurant or check their official channels.

 

A: The evening hours tend to be best for both dining and atmosphere. To be safe, call ahead to confirm the most up-to-date hours before you go.

 

A: Take the Chao Phraya Express Boat to Phra Athit Pier and walk from there, or use BTS/MRT and continue by taxi or public transport into the Phra Nakhon – Banglamphu area. Allow extra time in the evening as traffic can be heavy.

 

A: Start with a walk at Santichaiprakarn Park and Phra Sumen Fort, continue along Phra Athit Road, then finish with dinner at Hemlock Art. Afterward, you can easily continue to Khao San Road or head back by boat or transit.